Sept. 30, 2010 – (Toronto, Ontario) – Today, the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO) is providing Ontarians with helpful information in regards to safeguarding their homes from water damage during this lengthening rainy season.
Climate change has caused an influx of precipitation over the past weeks and it is scheduled to continue in the upcoming weeks. It is important that home owners are diligent in ensuring their home and property can withstand the increased water flow to the best of their ability.
Conservation Ontario deems flooding as one of the leading causes of public emergency in the province. Although impossible to control the weather, IBAO encourages Ontarians to take control of their own homes by making a few simple changes that will significantly reduce the negative effects of flood damage.
“Safe guarding your property from potential flood damages and ensuring you know what to do before and after a flood occurs is essential in the protection of yourself, your family and your property,” said Randy Carroll, IBAO CEO.
Here are some tips to protect your home and property from flooding:
- If the area you live in is susceptible to sewer back-up, make sure your home has a back-flow valve and plugs for drains, toilets and other sewer connectors installed.
- If you don’t have a sump pump, install one. If you do have a sump pump, test it to make sure it is working. Because severe weather often causes a hydro interruption, it makes good sense to install a battery back-up device for the sump pump or keep a small gas generator to power critical electrical circuits. Both of these devices are available at a reasonable cost from any building supply or hardware store.
- If you have an unfinished basement, we suggest you store items in plastic containers or on shelving at least 12″ off the floor.
- Ensure your window wells are clear of leaves and debris and by periodically checking your foundation for signs of wear, tear and cracks. Keep eaves and downspouts clear of debris and make sure water flow is directed away from the foundation. If your building code in your area permits it, have the downspouts connected directly to your weeping tiles or sewer drain.
- In winter, keep snow away from the foundation to reduce surface water during sudden spring thaws and winter rains. Areas around ground level windows and window wells should be clearly regularly.
“We urge all Ontarians to take the necessary precautions during this time of year to protect their property from the heavy rain falls,” added Carroll. “Insurance brokers are fully committed to informing Ontarians and keeping them safe.”
About The Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO)
The Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO) is a ‘not for profit’ association that represents and serves the interests of over 11,400 independent Property & Casualty Insurance Brokers in the Province of Ontario. For information about IBAO, visit www.ibao.org or www.ibao.org/blog to receive timely news and information updates. You can also follow IBAO on Twitter or join the IBAO Facebook Fan Page.
